Description

The BETHESDA HAND PACK is an essential emergency food product designed to provide a nutritionally complete daily ration in challenging field conditions. Each pack is meticulously crafted to deliver 2,100 kcal per day, ensuring that vital nutritional needs are met during emergency relief situations. The formulation includes a balanced mix of proteins, lipids with polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to maintain nutritional status effectively.

Physical Form

• Low-Moisture Design: Each ration is a low-moisture product with less than 5% moisture, enhancing its shelf stability.
• Portion Control: The daily ration is approximately 450g, divided into nine bars. Each bar is centrally scored, allowing easy portioning into two 116-calorie segments.

Packaging Features

The packaging of the BETHESDA HAND PACK is engineered for durability and protection, crucial for field deployment:

• Primary Bar Wrap: Each bar is individually wrapped in a pulp-based material, providing a minor moisture barrier and microbial protection.
• Barrier Pouch: The nine bars are collectively packaged in a trilaminate barrier pouch, either nitrogen flushed or vacuum sealed. This pouch comprises layers of polyolefin, aluminum foil, and polyester or nylon, ensuring excellent oxygen and moisture control.
• Residual Oxygen: The packaging maintains residual oxygen below 0.5%, with a maximum of 2%, and limits moisture gain to 1% over its shelf life.
• Shelf Life: Designed to last up to 3 years with proper packaging integrity.
• Easy Opening: Features notches for easy opening on both primary and secondary packaging.

Secondary and Bulk Packaging

For enhanced protection and usability in the field:

• Bundling: Five daily rations are bundled in a polyolefin bag, which may include easy opening notches.
• Alternative Containers: Options include rigid plastic or metal containers for additional protection and secondary uses, such as water carrying.
• Shipping Configuration: Eight bundles (40 daily rations) are packed in a corrugated or metal container, with approximately 50 cases per pallet for efficient transport.

Durability and Field Use

The packaging is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of field use and airdrop delivery. Additional cushioning materials like bubble packs, foam, or air bags may be employed to protect the contents during impact.

Intended Use

The BETHESDA HAND PACK is ideally suited for emergency relief, humanitarian aid, and field deployment scenarios where long shelf life, robust packaging, and ease of use are paramount. Alternative packaging options are available for scenarios with less critical shelf life requirements, utilizing airtight foil bags and water-repellent paperboard boxes.